Here are instructions to fix stolen plates in SF
Thank you to everyone in the comments to help improve the post!
A month ago my rear plates were stolen and I got a ticket. I expected the process would be annoying but I was able to do this mostly online and wanted to share my experience and learning along the way. Hope this helps someone.
- Unregister your plates from FasTrak or any other relevant service.
- Go to a police station in person right away and file a report. Wait a few days to request a copy of the police report online.
- The fastest way to get replacement plates is to go to the DMV in person and they'll hand them to you right there. People in the comments suggest going to AAA (no membership required) as well. You can also go to the DMV website to order replacement plates; however, it takes 4-6 weeks. If you go this route like I did consider putting a note on your windshield along with the original ticket. It doesn't guarantee you won't get another ticket but can help.
- Put on your new plates, take pictures of them on your car, and also your new registration card. Pro tip: use theft resistant screws.
- Register your new plates with FasTrak and any other relevant service.
- With the pic of the registration card transfer any residential parking permit to your new plates.
- With the police report and pic of the new plates on your car contest the citation to get the fee reduced.
- Pay the reduced citation fee.